What You Need
- •Original foreign driver's license
- •Official translation
- •Passport and ARC
- •Recent photo (3.5×4.5cm)
- •Application fee: ₩8,500–₩16,000
Step-by-Step Guide
Check exchange eligibility
Citizens of countries with bilateral agreements (US, Canada, UK, Germany, Australia, Japan, etc.) can exchange without a driving test.
- 💡Full list at koroad.or.kr
Get your license officially translated
Have your foreign license translated at the Korean Automobile Association (한국자동차클럽, 02-3558-4100) or your embassy.
Visit a Driver's License Test Center
Go to your nearest 운전면허시험장 with all documents. Exchange licenses or register for a driving test.
Complete any required tests
Exchange-eligible countries: no test needed. Others: written test only or full practical test.
Receive your Korean license
Issued same day or within 1–2 business days.
Insider Tips
- →International Driving Permit (IDP) allows driving in Korea for up to 1 year
- →Exchange-eligible countries skip written and practical tests entirely
- →You can drive with IDP while waiting for your ARC
- →Korea drives on the right side of the road
Arrival setup
Recommended Setup Services
Practical recommendations for common first-week tasks in Korea.
Korea arrival essentials
Prepare bedding, towels, adapters, kitchen basics, toiletries, and first-week household items after arrival.
Browse essentials →Korea eSIM data
Get mobile data before landing so maps, translation, messaging, and transit apps work from the airport.
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